Black

Lascaux, Megaloceros

Tutanhkamun jackal

Akhilleus Aias MGEt 16757

Duccio - The Temptation on the Mount

Fra Angelico 010

Black refers to a color which results from the absence or complete absorption of visible light. It is an achromatic color, literally a color without hue, like white and gray. It is often used symbolically or figuratively to represent darkness, while white represents light. Black ink is the most common color used for printing books, newspapers, and documents, because it has the highest contrast with white paper and is the easiest to read.

Etymology

The word "black" comes from Old English blæc, from Proto-Germanic *blakkaz, which is related to Old Norse blakkr. The same word is often found in other languages, for example, in Old High German blah, and in Old Saxon blak. The word originally meant "to burn, blaze, shine," and was a derivative from the meaning "burned" or "scorched".

Science and optics

In the visible spectrum, black is the absorption of all colors. Black can be defined as the visual impression experienced when no visible light reaches the eye. Pigments or dyes that absorb light rather than reflect it back to the eye "look black". A black pigment can, however, result from a combination of several pigments that collectively absorb all colors. If appropriate proportions of three primary pigments are mixed, the result reflects so little light as to be called "black".

This concept can be extended to the entire electromagnetic spectrum; black objects absorb all electromagnetic radiation, not just visible light. In terms of physics, an object is black if it absorbs all the light that hits it. The ideal black body is a theoretical object that absorbs all incoming light and reflects none.

History and symbolism

Throughout history, black has been a symbol of power, mystery, and sophistication. In many cultures, it represents death and mourning. In fashion, black is a timeless color that suggests elegance and simplicity. It has been a popular color for typography due to its contrast and clarity when used on white paper.

The use of black in symbolism can be seen in its representation of evil, the unknown, and fear of the unknown. It's often used in contrast with white, which symbolizes purity and innocence. In the Western world, black is commonly worn at funerals, while in some Eastern cultures, white is used.

In culture and society

Black has played a significant role in culture and society. In the arts, it has been a color of mystery and sophistication. Many artists and fashion designers have used black for its ability to convey depth and variation of form. In political and social movements, black has been used to signify resistance and protest. The Black Power movement and the use of black in anarchist symbols are examples of how the color has been politicized.

See also

• Color theory
• Black and white
• Shades of black